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Recycle Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RECYCLE OPERATOR

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Unlike recycling assistants, this position requires less supervision, advanced equipment operation ... Direct drivers to proper loading/unloading areas and assist with material handling. * Participate ...

Recycle Operator

Carlsbad, NM · On-site

$11.50 - $14.25/hr

The Recycle Operator assists in the daily operation of water recycling systems by performing ... Candidate must possess a valid driver's license with no restrictions that would prohibit driving a ...

Dedicated Driver

Marion, IA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Quincy Recycle offers significant value to our manufacturing partners across all industries. We are ... Class A CDL with airbrake endorsement * Must be able to pass all DOT rules and regulations * High ...

Recycling Collection Driver - Airport Operations. IGLogistix, a division of Imprimis Group, is hiring Recycling Collection Drivers to support a recycling collection operation at DFW Airport. This ...

Dedicated Driver

Marion, IA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Driver Applicants Must Apply here → Company Overview: Be a part of the fastest-growing waste and ... Quincy Recycle offers significant value to our manufacturing partners across all industries. We are ...

Recycle Operator

Carlsbad, NM

$11.50 - $14.25/hr

The Recycle Operator assists in the daily operation of water recycling systems by performing ... Candidate must possess a valid driver's license with no restrictions that would prohibit driving a ...

... Recycle Centers. This position assists the public in placing materials in proper containers ... Duties include opening and closing the facility, assisting drivers with container changes, sorting ...

$17.75 - $18.75/hr

Recycle Technician Job Overview The Recycle Technician will be responsible for the recycle, reuse ... May be required to have a valid driver's license. Completed all safety and task training ...

The Montana Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for a Pesticide Container Recycling Driver , located in Helena, MT. This is a seasonal 20-40 hour per week position. The mission of the ...

... Recycle Centers. This position assists the public in placing materials in proper containers ... Duties include opening and closing the facility, assisting drivers with container changes, sorting ...

Showing results 41-60

Recycle Driver information

See salary details

$15

$17

$19

How much do recycle driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycle driver in the United States is $17.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Recycle Driver vs Waste Collection Driver?

AspectRecycle DriverWaste Collection Driver
CredentialsValid driver’s license, commercial driving license (CDL) often preferredValid driver’s license, CDL often required
Work EnvironmentResidential, commercial, and industrial areas focusing on recyclingResidential and commercial waste pickup areas
Industry UsageRecycling companies, municipal recycling programsWaste management companies, municipal waste services

Recycle Drivers and Waste Collection Drivers both operate trucks and require valid driver’s licenses. Recycle Drivers focus on collecting recyclable materials, often working in recycling centers or programs, while Waste Collection Drivers handle general waste. Both roles are essential in waste management, but their specific duties and target materials differ.

What is a recycle driver?

Recycle drivers are professionals responsible for collecting recyclable materials from homes, businesses, and public locations and transporting them to recycling facilities. They operate specialized trucks designed for hauling recyclables such as paper, plastics, metals, and glass. In addition to driving, recycle drivers often perform tasks like sorting materials, ensuring loads are secure, and maintaining records of collection routes. Their work plays a crucial role in supporting community recycling programs and promoting environmental sustainability.

What are some common challenges faced by recycle drivers, and how can they be managed?

Recycle Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating tight urban streets, managing heavy or awkward loads, and adhering to strict collection schedules. Weather conditions and unexpected route changes can also add complexity to the job. To manage these challenges, drivers rely on strong route planning skills, attention to safety procedures, and effective communication with dispatchers and team members. Many companies provide ongoing training and support to help drivers adapt and work efficiently in various environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recycle driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recycle Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), knowledge of safe driving practices, and understanding of local recycling regulations. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, GPS navigation, and route management software is typically required. Reliability, strong customer service skills, and attention to detail help drivers maintain schedules and interact positively with the community. These skills ensure safe, efficient collection of recyclables and contribute to environmental sustainability and customer satisfaction.
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What cities are hiring for Recycle Driver jobs?

Cities with the most Recycle Driver job openings:

What states have the most Recycle Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Recycle Driver jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Recycle Driver jobs?

For Recycle Driver jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Recycle Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,826 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

RECYCLE OPERATOR

NEXUS DISPOSAL

Houston, TX • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Nexus Disposal is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer (M/F/V/D). We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and rewarding workplace for all employees.

Schedule & Pay

  • Work Days: Monday – Saturday
  • Shift: 5:30 AM – 3:00 PM (hours may vary by season and weather)
  • Hourly Rate: 19.00/HR

Position Summary
We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our recycling and landfill diversion operations. This role involves operating a variety of heavy equipment and recycling machinery while also performing manual and semi-skilled labor in an open-air recycling environment. Unlike recycling assistants, this position requires less supervision, advanced equipment operation skills, and strong knowledge of recyclable materials.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safely operate heavy equipment including forklifts, wheel loaders, skid steers, excavators, backhoes, and bulldozers.
  • Operate and maintain recycling machinery such as balers, wood grinders, shredders, and sorting stations.
  • Inspect materials and sort by type, size, or condition into designated containers or piles.
  • Sort recyclable materials including concrete, plastics, wood, metals (copper, brass, aluminum), and cardboard (OCC).
  • Assist with baler machine operations to prepare materials for shipment.
  • Maintain a clean recycling yard (sweeping, raking, moving barrels/bins, removing debris).
  • Direct drivers to proper loading/unloading areas and assist with material handling.
  • Participate in weekly safety meetings and follow all safety guidelines.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

  • Education: Not required.
  • Experience: 6+ months of relevant work experience preferred.

Skills & Abilities

  • Ability to perform physically demanding labor in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions.
  • Comfortable working around strong odors, noise, dust, and debris.
  • Capable of standing, walking, bending, lifting, and climbing for extended periods (up to 12 hours per day).
  • Able to lift up to 30 lbs regularly.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
  • Willingness to learn and follow safety procedures and recycling material identification.

Work Environment

  • Outdoor, open-air work site.
  • Frequent exposure to dirt, odors, noise, rodents, and weather extremes.
  • Occasional exposure to occupational risks (cuts, burns, chemicals, etc.).
  • Full range of body movement required.

Benefits
Nexus Disposal offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off and Holidays
  • Company 401(k) Match
  • Additional employee perks and programs